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Boating is very popular in South Carolina, with nearly 3,000 miles of coastline and about 8,000 miles of rivers and lakes. Unfortunately, boating accidents occur often and can cause severe damage. Like motor vehicle accidents, boat collisions can result in serious or even fatal injuries. If you or a loved one is recovering from injuries after a boating accident in Bluffton, SC, we want to help you get your life back to normal.
Our Bluffton boat accident lawyer could work on your behalf to pursue compensation from all liable parties responsible for the accident. It is important to act promptly, though, as the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in South Carolina is generally three years from the date of injury. You can reach out to us today to learn how our personal injury lawyer can review your legal rights and options to recover compensation.
Recoverable Damages in a Bluffton Boat Accident
Injured boating accident victims in South Carolina can seek financial recovery for losses they suffered because of someone else’s negligence. The damages they collect depend on the specifics of their cases, but generally, they can request compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Ongoing rehabilitation care (e.g., physical therapy)
- Lost income and lost earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one suffered fatal boating injuries in a Bluffton accident (e.g., funeral and burial expenses)
When we review the accident, we will advise you on what you could recover and how much compensation to request from the liable party.
How Legal Representation From Our Firm Can Help Your Bluffton, SC, Boat Accident Case
Our boating accident attorneys are here for you throughout the entire process, whether they are handling an insurance claim or lawsuit on your behalf. We will manage your entire case, freeing up your time to focus solely on healing from the accident.
Our Bluffton injury attorneys will:
- Investigate the accident’ s cause and identify all potentially liable parties
- Gather case-supporting evidence, including witness testimony, police reports, etc.
- Consult with expert witnesses who can give insight into the extent of your injuries
- Communicate with all parties in your case
- Negotiate for fair financial compensation
- Prepare and file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations if we cannot settle your outside of court
We customize our legal services to your situation so that we ensure we protect your rights and advocate for your interests. We will answer your questions and concerns and update you throughout your case. With your Bluffton boat accident case in our hands, you can focus on taking care of yourself and your family.
If your family member suffered fatal injuries, we are very sorry for your loss and are here for you when you’re ready to file a wrongful death lawsuit if someone else caused the accident. We will handle your case while you focus on managing your loved one’s final arrangements and other matters.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Bluffton, SC
Everyone who operates a boat is obligated to abide by boating safety rules and exercise reasonable caution, just like operators of motor vehicles. The injured claimant’s Bluffton boat accident lawyer could put together a viable claim for compensation by showing that the opposing party did not adhere to this standard of care.
What Is Boater Inattention?
The operator of a boat is expected to pay close attention to the task at hand, including weather conditions, passengers on board, and the movements of nearby watercraft. Being distracted while behind the wheel of a boat can all too easily lead to a collision.
Speeding
Just like roads, most waterways have speed limits. Driving a boat at an excessive speed can lead to a collision with another boat or a stationary object.
Driving Under the Influence
In South Carolina, it is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing so is exceptionally dangerous behavior that can lead to serious injury, loss of life, and imprisonment.
Machinery Failure
If a boating accident occurred due to machine or part failure, the manufacturer could be held liable for damages. Potential defendants include the boat owner, who may not have performed routine maintenance, or the manufacturer of a defective part.
What Does Share Fault Mean in Bluffton?
In a boating accident, there may be many people who could be held liable for damages, including the injured party. South Carolina follows the rules of comparative negligence codified in South Carolina Code § 15-38-15. If the injured claimant is found to be less than 50 percent at fault for a collision, they may still be able to recover compensation for damages from the defendant. Their compensation award would be reduced by their share of fault.
The Statute of Limitations in Bluffton, SC, Injury Cases
To recover compensation for damages, claimants must abide by the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations is the period or deadline injured parties must follow to file certain legal actions. Following a boating accident, the injured party has three years to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Since there may be exceptions to the statute of limitations, it is best to seek help from an experienced Bluffton boat accident attorney.
Speak With Us Today – Our Bluffton Boat Accident Attorney Can Help
Being injured in a boating accident can be a terrifying experience. Injured individuals are often left with significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Fortunately, those who have been injured in a boat collision may seek compensation from the negligent party.
Contact a Bluffton boat accident lawyer at Schiller & Hamilton today to discuss your legal options to recover compensation. We are ready to help you move forward and discuss your options during a free consultation.